The Federal Government has directed that junior civil servants who fail mandatory promotion examinations three consecutive times may be required to leave service.

The directive, issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, is aimed at strengthening discipline and improving performance across the public sector.

In a circular signed by Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, Binyerem C. Ukaira, the government stated that the confirmation and promotion examination is not only necessary for career advancement but also a condition for continued employment.

According to the circular, any officer who fails the examination after three attempts will be required to resign or withdraw from service.

The policy also sets a timeline for participation, warning that employees who fail to take the confirmation examination within three years of appointment risk losing their jobs.

The government said the directive is backed by existing Public Service Rules and must be enforced across all ministries, departments and agencies.

Officials added that the 2026 confirmation and promotion (COMPRO) examination will be conducted as a computer-based test for officers on Salary Grade Levels 01 to 06.

Eligible candidates are required to register through an official portal, with nominations submitted by their respective MDAs.

The circular stated that failure to complete registration or meet accreditation requirements will disqualify candidates from sitting the examination.

The exam will assess candidates in areas including English language, public service rules, financial regulations and computer literacy.

Authorities described the examination as a key mechanism for maintaining standards within the civil service, noting that stricter enforcement signals a renewed effort to improve accountability and efficiency in government institutions.